Port Charlotte Dentist Explains Why To Choose Composite

At Family Dentistry, we believe in conservative care. We believe in patient comfort and satisfaction, and in creating lifelong relationships built on respect and trust. With this in mind, we approach patient care thoughtfully, with each individual in mind. When you visit your dentist in the Port Charlotte area, you can expect friendly service and minimally invasive treatments whenever this is possible. One that offer significant benefit is composite fillings.

A filling is a filling is a filling, right? No. Amalgam fillings, also called "silver fillings," were first developed over 150 years ago. Do you know of anything else that has not been improved upon for as long a period of time? Most of the products and services we take advantage of today have evolved since they were initially designed. Although many people may still be in the dark about this, dental fillings are one of them, and we couldn't be happier about this evolution!

What makes Composite Fillings Special

Composite is a fusion of plastic (resin) and glass. There is no metal in composite fillings, nor any mercury. The composite mixture is shaded to match the exact color of enamel, which means that the end result is a completely discreet restoration. When you look at your repaired tooth, it will look no different than a healthy tooth. No dark spots, no potential danger.

Danger? From a dental filling? This may sound alarming, and it should. The conversation about dental amalgam has gone global in recent years, and there is an urgency among health organizations to eliminate its use around the world. Patients of our office, which focuses on minimally invasive dentistry, need not worry about the dangers of mercury in amalgam fillings because we do not perform this treatment. They can, however, enjoy all the benefits of composite fillings!

In addition to a far more pleasing appearance, composite fillings are also revered for their durability and for their resemblance to natural enamel. This is significant because it pertains to the way that composite material responds to varying temperatures. Amalgam, because it contains metal, will expand more intensely than enamel. This could eventually cause the tooth to crack, leading to further damage. The expansion rate of composite mimics that of enamel, virtually wiping out the risk of fracture.

Aesthetics aside, there are several reasons why our patients appreciate composite fillings. To learn more about this restorative treatment, call (941) 624-0990.